Y esto tambien (And This Too)

The Spanish print Y esto tambien (And This Too), by Francisco Goya, is a profound example of the artist’s mastery of graphic media. Classified simply as a Print, this powerful image was realized using a complex combination of intaglio techniques: etching, aquatint or lavis, drypoint, and burin. Goya’s utilization of these varied processes allowed him to achieve rich, dramatic contrasts and specific textures, pushing the technical boundaries of printmaking during his era.

Though the preparatory work for this image originated much earlier, this impression was published posthumously during the 1851 to 1875 period. This date of publication places the piece within the wider context of 19th-century European art, reflecting the growing appreciation for, and dissemination of, the visionary work produced by Goya. Reflecting the core traditions of Spanish cultural commentary, the work typically confronts themes of violence, superstition, or institutional corruption, employing dark tonality to amplify its emotional impact. The meticulous detailing achieved through the drypoint and burin work enhances the figures’ intensity, providing a visceral connection to the subject matter.

Goya’s innovative spirit and technical skill cemented his legacy as one of the most important graphic artists in history. This specific impression of Y esto tambien resides in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., enriching the institution’s robust holdings of significant European prints. As the artist's original work dates to the early 19th century, high-quality images of these significant prints are frequently made available to scholars and the general public, often falling under public domain classification.